Media Statement
09 January 2017
South African Government condemns attack on Israeli soldiers in Jerusalem
President Jacob Zuma, has today, on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, extended the country’s condolences to the government of Israel for the attack on its four young cadet soldiers killed in the truck incident that took place yesterday in East Jerusalem.
South Africa is opposed to any violent actions particularly in as far as the Israel- Palestine conflict is concerned. We call upon both countries to commit to the peaceful resolution of the conflict and as South Africa we are readily available to offer assistance in restarting negotiations between the two countries.
As we condemn the killing of the soldiers we also call upon the parties in conflict to respect the international law, decisions of all the United Nations agencies and councils which help us to navigate peacefully the political problems bedevilling Israel and Palestine.
As South Africa we regard political dialogue and engagement as key in finding lasting sustainable peaceful solution and the killing of the soldiers in Jerusalem should not be a justification for continued attacks and counter attacks which will only worsen the already precarious situation.
Enquiries: Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for DIRCO on 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
|
